The Advanced Output Center is the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s printing and prototyping lab specializing in digital input and output. The AOC’s facilities include laser cutting, large format 2D scanning and 3D printing and scanning.


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Get Certified for Laser CuttingGet Certified for 3D Scanning
Get Certified For Ultimaker Self Service PrintingBook Slice Review to use self-service Ultimaker printers.
Book Appointments for Laser Cutters, 3D Scanners, or Lab Use

Hours

Fall 2026August 24 to December 14Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 9:00pm
Saturday: 9:00am to 3:00pm

Dates Closed

Thankgiving Break
Winter Holiday Closure
November 23rd to 27th
December 15 to January 4th

Access

With very few stipulations, the AOC’s services and facilities are available to currently enrolled students, active faculty and staff at SAIC. Please see the individual resource sections for details.

All users must attend an certification prior to using the laser cutters or 3D scanners. The devices are self-service and are available for use during regular operating hours. See the Laser Access Policy or 3D Scanner Access Policy page for details.


Certifications

Certifications are available online and can take about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. Laser cutting certifications are good for four calendar years at both the Advanced Output Center and the 280 Digital Fabrication Studio. Certifications for 3D scanning and 3D printing do not expire.

To request a class tour, please fill out this form.